Mass Notes . . .

Receiving Holy Communion

CATHOLICS: One hour fast is required before going to Holy Communion. Persons must be in a state of grace -- no mortal sins. Case in point: If one has missed Sunday Mass or Mass on a Holy Day of Obligation for no good reason, one should avail themselves of the sacrament of Penance before attempting to receive Holy Communion.

GUIDELINES FOR NON-CATHOLIC GUEST:Because Catholics believe that the celebration of the Eucharist is a sign of the reality of oneness of faith, life and worship, members of those Churches with whom we are not yet fully united are ordinarily not admitted to Holy Communion. Eucharist sharing in exceptional circumstances by other Christians requires permission according to the directives of the diocesan bishop and the provisions of canon law (Canon 844, 4).

Members of the Orthodox Churches, the Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church are urged to respect their own Churches. According to Roman Catholic discipline, the Code of Canon Law does not object to the reception of Communion by Christians of these Churches (844, 03).

FOR THOSE NOT RECEIVING HOLY COMMUNION: All who are not receiving Holy Communion are encouraged to express in their hearts a prayerful desire for unity with the Lord Jesus and with one another.

FOR NON-CHRISTIANS: We also welcome to this celebration those who do not share our faith in Jesus Christ. While we cannot admit them to Holy Communion, we ask them to offer their prayers for peace and the unity of the human family.